The 5 Best Local Experiences in Savannah

Welcome to Savannah, Georgia! It’s a charming coastal city known for its Spanish moss-covered oak trees, historic architecture, and diverse culture. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or spending an extended period, there’s plenty to see and do. From strolls along River Street to exploring museums and parks, Savannah offers something for everyone. In this post, we’ll take a look at the best attractions and things to do in Savannah, so pack your bags and get ready to experience Southern hospitality at its finest.

The 5 Best Local Experiences in Savannah

  1. Segway History Tour of Savannah
  2. Savannah Style Historic District and the Islands Private Guided Tour of Savannah
  3. 90 Minute Segway History Tour
  4. 2 Hr Private Walking Tour of Historic Savannah
  5. Custom Savannah Private Tour

The 5 Best Local Experiences in Savannah

1. Segway History Tour of Savannah

Experience Savannah like never before with a guided 1-hour small-group Segway tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods. Learn about the more than 20 city squares, historic homes, museums, churches, mansions, monuments, and famous forts of the Revolutionary and Civil War eras. This unique tour includes guided training on operating the Segway. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear flat, closed-toed shoes. The meeting point is located at 412 Whitaker St., Savannah, GA 31401, with the tour ending back at the same location. During the tour, pass by notable attractions such as the Telfair Academy. All taxes and gratuities are included in the price of the tour.

2. Savannah Style Historic District and the Islands Private Guided Tour of Savannah

Explore both the historic district and Tybee Island in one private tour with a knowledgeable guide. Your tour begins in the Savannah Historic District with a visit to its squares and cemeteries, where you’ll learn about the city’s history, heritage, and culture. After exploring the district, your private guide will take you to Tybee Island to visit its iconic lighthouse and Fort Pulaski National Monument. Customize the itinerary to match your interests and enjoy some bottled water during the ride. Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and gratuities are included. The pickup point is within a 15-mile radius of midtown Savannah.

3. 90 Minute Segway History Tour

Explore Savannah’s rich history on a 90-minute Segway tour that takes you to some of the city’s top landmarks and monuments. Meet your guide at 412 Whitaker St and after a quick safety lesson, you will head off on your tour. See different periods of Savannah’s history as you glide through parks, squares, and cemeteries. Your guide will provide fascinating stories about the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, as well as other notable sites like the Telfair Academy. Throughout the small-group tour, you’ll get to admire quaint homes, fountains, and monuments up close. The tour includes taxes, gratuities, and all the necessary equipment to ensure a fun and safe journey. Please note that this tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers. After finishing the tour, you will return to the starting point, where you started the tour.

4. 2 Hr Private Walking Tour of Historic Savannah

Explore the historic Savannah on a 2-hour private walking tour with a professional local guide. The tour starts at Wright Square, where you’ll meet your guide opposite CVS on the north side of the monument in the center of the square facing CVS. Wright Square doesn’t have a physical address. Your tour ends at the Fountain in Forsyth Park.

During the tour, you will visit various attractions and historic sites such as Juliette Gordon Low’s Birthplace, and you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the history of Savannah.

The tour covers approximately one mile, so make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. There are benches along the way if you need to take a break. You should also consider the weather and bring an umbrella if necessary. Note that service animals are allowed on the tour, and there is public transportation nearby.

Confirmation of the tour will be received at the time of booking, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance. In the event of severe weather, you will have the option to reschedule, but there are no refunds unless the tour is canceled. Gratuities are included in the tour price.

Discover the best attractions and things to do in Savannah with this private walking tour.

5. Custom Savannah Private Tour

Discover the culture, architecture, and heritage of the Savannah Historic District with a private walking tour. With a knowledgeable guide, you can personalize your itinerary according to your interests and maximize your time in Savannah. The tour covers local landmarks, parks, historic sites, and cemeteries, giving you a comprehensive view of Savannah’s history and culture. Hotel pick-up is available within a 15-mile radius of midtown Savannah. Bottled water, private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, and gratuities are all included in the tour. The tour lasts for 3 hours and is not wheelchair accessible. Animals are not allowed on this walking tour.

The Most Frequently Asked Questions by Tourists about Savannah

Savannah is a charming and historic city that attracts thousands of tourists every year. The city offers a wide variety of attractions, including historic landmarks, museums, restaurants, and outdoor activities. However, as is the case with any tourist destination, visitors often have questions about the city before and during their stay. To help you plan your trip to Savannah, here are the most frequently asked questions by tourists, and their answers:

1. What is the best time of year to visit Savannah?

Savannah’s weather is typically mild and pleasant, but visitors should be aware of the heat and humidity that come with the summer months (June to August). The best time to visit Savannah is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is cooler and less humid. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as walking tours and boat rides during these seasons without the heat taking a toll on them.

2. What are the must-see attractions in Savannah?

There are so many must-see attractions in Savannah, it’s hard to list them all. However, some of the highlights include:

  • The historic district, which is full of beautiful architecture and picturesque streets
  • The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) Museum of Art, which features works from local and international artists
  • The Telfair Museums, which consist of three separate museums that showcase art, history, and architecture
  • The Bonaventure Cemetery, which is known for its beautiful scenery, lovely tombs, and the final resting place of many famous figures
  • The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, which is a stunning example of Gothic architecture
  • The Savannah Riverfront, which offers a scenic view of the river and many restaurants, galleries, and shops

3. Where can I find the best food in Savannah?

Savannah is known for its Southern cuisine, so visitors should indulge in some of the city’s classic dishes such as fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and biscuits and gravy. Some of the best places to eat in Savannah include:

  • The Collins Quarter, which offers a modern twist on classic dishes and excellent coffee
  • The Olde Pink House, which is housed in a historic mansion and offers Southern comfort food
  • The Grey, which is located in a restored bus station and offers contemporary Southern cuisine and craft cocktails
  • Back in the Day Bakery, which serves homemade cakes, pies, and other sweet treats

4. What is the best way to get around Savannah?

Savannah is a walkable city, so visitors can easily explore the historic district on foot. However, there are other transportation options available, such as:

  • Hop-on, hop-off trolleys that provide guided tours of the city
  • Buses that connect different parts of the city
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft
  • Bicycle rentals for those who prefer to cycle around the city

5. What are some outdoor activities to do in Savannah?

Savannah is a great city for outdoor activities, especially during the spring and fall months when the weather is milder. Visitors can enjoy:

  • Walking tours of the historic district, including ghost tours and pub crawls
  • Boat rides along the Savannah River, which provide beautiful views of the city
  • Hiking and camping at nearby national parks such as the Cumberland Island National Seashore
  • Kayaking and paddleboarding along the nearby waterways such as the Skidaway River

6. Is it safe to visit Savannah?

Savannah is generally a safe city to visit, but visitors should take basic precautions such as:

  • Avoiding deserted or poorly lit areas at night
  • Not leaving valuables in your car
  • Being aware of your surroundings and trusting your instincts
  • Staying in well-lit areas with other people around
  • Familiarizing yourself with the local emergency numbers and contacting the police or other authorities if you feel threatened or unsafe

7. What events are happening in Savannah?

Savannah hosts many events throughout the year, including:

  • The Savannah Music Festival, which showcases local and international musicians in a variety of genres
  • The Savannah Jazz Festival, which is a four-day event featuring jazz performances in Forsyth Park
  • The St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which is celebrated with parades, street parties, and riverboat cruises in mid-March
  • The Savannah Film Festival, which is a week-long event featuring film screenings, workshops, and panels with filmmakers and actors

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Savannah

Savannah, Georgia, is a charming and historic city that is loved by locals and tourists alike. With its cobblestone streets, beautiful architecture, and rich history, there are plenty of things to see and do in Savannah. If you’re planning a trip to this southern gem, here are some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Savannah.

1. Take a Walking Tour

Savannah is a very walkable city, and taking a walking tour is a great way to see all the sights. There are several companies that offer tours of the city, including ghost tours, architecture tours, and history tours. Some of the most popular tour companies in Savannah include Old Savannah Tours, Savannah Walks, and Ghost City Tours. These tours typically run for 2-3 hours and will take you through the historic district, which is full of beautiful mansions, parks, and squares.

Pro tip:

Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially if you’re taking a tour in the summer months when it can get quite hot.

2. Visit Forsyth Park

Forsyth Park is a must-see when visiting Savannah. This beautiful, 30-acre park is located in the heart of the historic district and is home to the iconic Forsyth Fountain. The fountain, which dates back to 1858, is a popular spot for photos and is surrounded by lush, green trees and gardens. There are also plenty of benches and picnic tables throughout the park, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Pro tip:

Visit the park early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds and the heat.

3. Take a Riverboat Cruise

Savannah is located on the Savannah River, which means that taking a riverboat cruise is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. There are several companies that offer riverboat cruises, including Savannah Riverboat Cruises and Old Town Trolley Tours. These cruises typically run for 1-2 hours and will take you along the river while pointing out Savannah’s historic landmarks.

Pro tip:

Book your riverboat cruise in advance, especially if you’re visiting Savannah during peak tourist season.

4. Visit the Telfair Museums

The Telfair Museums are a collection of three museums in Savannah that showcase art and architecture from different eras. The Telfair Academy is housed in a beautiful mansion that dates back to 1818 and features European art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The Jepson Center for the Arts focuses on contemporary art, and the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters explores the history of Savannah’s wealthy elite and the enslaved people who worked for them.

Pro tip:

Plan to spend at least an hour at each museum to fully appreciate the exhibits.

5. Sample Southern Food

No trip to Savannah is complete without trying some of the delicious southern cuisine that the city is known for. Some popular local dishes include fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and Lowcountry boil. There are plenty of restaurants in Savannah that offer these dishes, including Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room, The Olde Pink House, and The Grey.

Pro tip:

Consider taking a food tour of the city to sample a variety of dishes and learn about Savannah’s culinary history.

6. Explore Tybee Island

Tybee Island is a small barrier island located just 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. This charming island is known for its beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and historic forts. Some popular activities on Tybee Island include sunbathing, biking, and kayaking.

Pro tip:

If you’re visiting Savannah during the summer months, consider spending a day at Tybee Island to escape the heat and crowds.

7. Shop on Broughton Street

Broughton Street is Savannah’s premier shopping destination, with a variety of shops, boutiques, and galleries. Some popular stores on Broughton Street include Savannah Bee Company, Nourish Bath Products, and Satchel.

Pro tip:

Visit Broughton Street during the week to avoid the weekend crowds.

Conclusion

Savannah is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do for tourists. Whether you’re interested in history, food, or just soaking up the southern charm, Savannah has something for everyone. By taking a walking tour, visiting Forsyth Park, exploring Tybee Island, and sampling local cuisine, you can experience the best that Savannah has to offer.

The 5 Best Local Experiences in Savannah